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Joseph F. Sobanko, MD(Dermatologic Surgeon)answered(12/17/2012)It is important to recognize that the ultraviolet rays (UVA and UVB) from the sun negatively impact the health of the skin in many ways: -they are known to cause skin cancer -they age the skin and cause wrinkles
Ultraviolet tanning booths significantly accelerate the negative affects noted above. "Spray tans" offer a way to obtain a "safe tan" and avoid skin cancer and wrinkles.
The main ingredient in the spray is "DHA" (dihydroxyacetone) and it allows for coloring of the outer layer of skin. Over time (5-10 days), the product exfoliates off and the skin returns to its regular color.
DHA was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the 1970s. As far as we know, this product is safe. Since the product is aerosolized, I would be hesitant to recommend this if someone were to have breathing problems such as asthma.
Dr. Sophia Yen(Adolescent Medicine board certified, pediatrician)answered(7/19/2012)I haven't heard of any adverse effects. The only concern would be if the chemicals could cause cancer or something, but I haven't heard of that happening.
